High Impact Upgrades For a Greener Business
High Impact Upgrades for a Greener Business
Sustainability in business is more important than ever, and there are several high-impact investments to be made that will improve both carbon footprint and sustainability rankings. If you’re keen to go green in your company but don’t know where to start, here are a few powerful upgrades that will have an instant effect.
Update your business infrastructure
Upgrading a building's infrastructure is one of the most impactful ways for a business to increase its sustainability. For example, installing LED lighting and occupancy sensors can substantially reduce consumption by ensuring that lights and heating are only on when spaces are occupied. Business owners can benefit from lower utility costs from improving insulation and updating HVAC systems which will also maximise energy efficiency.
Switch to renewable energy
For businesses with sufficient outdoor space, installing solar panels or heat pumps can help generate sufficient renewable energy to power the whole operation. Although the initial capital outlay is something to consider, it will pay off in long-term energy cost savings, a benefit that companies can start experiencing straight away. When coupled with battery storage, businesses can use, store or sell the excess energy generated, turning their renewable energy system into a potential revenue stream.
Use environmentally friendly third parties
Choosing sustainable and locally-sourced materials, products and office supplies is an effective way for businesses to strengthen their green commitment and support eco-minded companies. Locally-sourced goods reduce emissions from transportation and support community organisations, while eco-friendly or recycled materials minimise environmental damage. Businesses should work with vendors and partners that share their values, helping to reinforce environmental stewardship across the supply chain.
Install EV chargers
Installing electric vehicle (EV) chargers at commercial premises is an impactful way to reduce carbon emissions from both employee and customer transportation. As more people adopt EVs, providing charging infrastructure helps enable their transition and gives them more confidence in switching from petrol or diesel-powered vehicles. EV chargers should be installed in locations that maximise convenience and access for people charging their vehicles. Priority spaces close to building entrances, dedicated charging spots in parking lots or garages, and high visibility areas all make chargers easy to locate and use. EV chargers demonstrate a business's commitment to reducing its carbon footprint by enabling more people to drive vehicles with zero direct emissions.
Utilise energy monitoring systems
Energy monitoring systems provide accurate and real-time data on a building's energy consumption to help identify waste and inefficiencies. While companies may know they can make overall effective cost reductions, energy monitoring systems give clear visibility to pinpoint exactly where and how energy is being misused. The visibility and analytics energy monitoring provides are key to unlocking savings that otherwise would remain unseen and untapped.
Businesses have both a responsibility and an opportunity to reduce their environmental impact through investments in sustainability. Upgrading infrastructure, improving processes and fostering an eco-friendly culture are high-impact ways for companies to go green and thrive.